Contents
- 1. Introduction: What Are “Phakic Intraocular Lenses” That Are Trending Recently?
- 2. What Exactly Are “ICL” and “IPCL”?
- 3. Here is the Difference! 3 Major Differences Between ICL and IPCL
- 4. Ultimately, Which Lens Is Right for Me?
- 5. Summary: Ultimately, Consult Thoroughly with an Ophthalmic Specialist!
1. Introduction: What Are “Phakic Intraocular Lenses” That Are Trending Recently?
“Putting on contact lenses every morning is a hassle,” “My eyes dry out during long hours of computer work,” “I want to be able to function with unaided vision in case of an emergency.” Among business professionals and parents in their 20s to 40s, phakic intraocular lenses (phakic IOLs) have been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years.
This treatment corrects vision by directly inserting a tiny lens inside the eye. Unlike LASIK, it does not involve reshaping the cornea (the surface of the eye), offering high visual quality and the peace of mind that the lens can be removed to restore the original state if necessary, which has earned it widespread support.
When researching this surgery, you will inevitably encounter the term “ICL,” but recently, you may have also started seeing “IPCL.” Many people likely wonder, “The names are similar, but what is actually the difference?” Here, we will explain the specific differences between ICL and IPCL in a clear, easy-to-understand manner while minimizing technical jargon.
2. What Exactly Are “ICL” and “IPCL”?
First, let’s clarify what each name refers to.
- ICL: An intraocular contact lens manufactured by STAAR Surgical in the United States. It is the most established, widely recognized lens with the longest history and track record in Japan.
- IPCL: Another intraocular contact lens manufactured by Care Group in India. It is a relatively new lens introduced following ICL.
Note: Phakic intraocular lens surgery is formally called “Phakic IOL Implantation.” In other words, neither ICL nor IPCL is the name of the surgery itself, but rather a difference in “lens brand names (product names).” It might be easier to think of it like the difference between an “iPhone” and a “Galaxy” smartphone.
3. Here is the Difference! 3 Major Differences Between ICL and IPCL
Let’s break down the specific differences into three key points.
Difference ①: Lens “Material” and Characteristics
There is a difference in the materials composing the lenses. ICL is made of a special hydrophilic (water-loving) material containing collagen called “Collamer.” It has extremely high biocompatibility and is an exceptional material that is rarely recognized as a foreign body when placed inside the eye. On the other hand, IPCL is made of a material called “hybrid acrylic,” which has been used for many years in cataract surgery lenses and other applications. This material also offers high safety and durability, being flexible and easily adaptable to the eye.
Difference ②: Range of Adaptable “Power” and Presbyopia Support
A feature of phakic intraocular lenses is that they are easily adaptable even for individuals who were told “LASIK is not possible due to high myopia or astigmatism,” but there is a difference in the range of lenses that can be manufactured.
While ICL offers a wide range of powers, there is a limit to the upper manufacturing threshold. On the other hand, IPCL can accommodate even stronger myopia or hyperopia than ICL, so there are cases where “ICL was outside the power range, but surgery is possible with IPCL.” Furthermore, the IPCL lineup includes multifocal lenses (presbyopia-correcting lenses) for progressive reading vision to address “presbyopia” starting in one’s 40s, offering a rich variety of visual choices tailored to age.
Difference ③: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare “Approval” Track Record and History
In medicine, whether Japan’s “Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare” (MHLW) recognizes (i.e., approves) safety and efficacy is an important decision criterion.
ICL received MHLW approval as early as 2010 and boasts an overwhelming number of surgeries and a long-standing track record not only in Japan but worldwide. Meanwhile, although IPCL’s safety was widely recognized overseas in Europe and elsewhere, it remained unapproved in Japan for a long time (used via personal importation at the doctor’s discretion). However, IPCL (for correcting myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia) has now officially obtained MHLW approval in Japan. As a result, patients can now approach surgery with peace of mind with either option as a “state-approved safe lens.”
4. Ultimately, Which Lens Is Right for Me?
Based on their respective characteristics, the following selection guidelines can serve as a reference:
[Recommended for ICL]
- Those who want to choose the lens chosen most worldwide, with a long history of over 20 years and an overwhelming track record.
- Those who are undecided about which lens to choose and want to first consider the mainstream, conventional treatment method.
[Recommended for IPCL]
- Those with severe myopia or hyperopia who were told they are “ineligible for ICL” during examination.
- Those around 40 years of age experiencing early signs of presbyopia who want to consider multifocal intraocular lenses (progressive lenses).
- Those looking for a lens with more finely detailed size options that better fit their eye shape (such as anterior chamber depth).
5. Summary: Ultimately, Consult Thoroughly with an Ophthalmic Specialist!
To summarize briefly, the mainstream option with years of history and a proven track record is “ICL,” while “IPCL” is an option that meets a wide range of needs such as high refractive powers and presbyopia correction, and has newly obtained national approval.
Vision correction surgery is an important decision that greatly influences your quality of life (QOL) for the rest of your life. Rather than deciding based solely on internet information, first visit a specialized eye clinic that offers both types of lenses. Undergo a detailed suitability examination and work with your doctor to find the lens best suited to your eye shape, lifestyle, and age.